Revisionist History Tim Harford Cools Us Down This Summer
Aug 19, 2022
Tim Harford, an economist and journalist known for his insightful podcast Cautionary Tales, dives into his captivating trilogy about the race to the South Pole. He reveals the intense rivalry between explorers Robert Falcon Scott and Roald Amundsen, highlighting their contrasting approaches and the harsh realities of their journeys. Harford draws intriguing parallels between their struggles and modern Silicon Valley startups while reflecting on the complexities of ambition and morality. They even debate which explorer would make the best dinner guest!
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The Race to the South Pole
- Robert Falcon Scott, representing the British Empire, and Roald Amundsen of Norway both aimed to be the first to reach the South Pole.
- Scott's expedition was far larger and better equipped, while Amundsen's was smaller and less publicized.
Scott's Early Misfortunes
- Scott's overloaded ship nearly sank, and the crew endured miserable conditions.
- The unloading of supplies was disastrous, with a motorized sled lost at sea.
Scott's Transportation Troubles
- Scott's diverse transportation methods, including ponies, dogs, and motorized sledges, hindered his progress.
- The varied speeds and needs of each method created a logistical nightmare, ultimately slowing the entire expedition.
